CPR Basics: First Steps

When you find someone who might need CPR, first check if they're responsive. Make sure the scene is safe before approaching, then tap their shoulders and ask loudly if they're okay. If they can't speak, ask them to blink to show they understand you.

Your next crucial step is to get help. Shout for someone nearby to call 911 and find an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). If you're alone, call 911 yourself immediately - getting emergency help quickly is vital in these situations.

After calling for help, check if the person is breathing. If they aren't breathing or only gasping occasionally, start chest compressions right away. Position them on a flat, firm surface and remove any clothing covering their chest. Place the heel of one hand on the lower half of their breastbone, put your other hand on top, and push straight down at least 2 inches at a rate of 100 compressions per minute or faster. Let the chest fully rise between each compression.

💡 Remember: Push "hard and fast" during compressions. The beat of the song "Stayin' Alive" by the Bee Gees is approximately 100 beats per minute - the perfect pace for CPR compressions!

CPR Sequence and Special Considerations

After compressions, you need to open the airway. Place one hand on the forehead and your fingers on the chin, then tilt the head back and lift the chin. This position helps air flow more easily into the lungs.

Next, give two rescue breaths. While keeping the airway open, pinch the nose closed, take a normal breath, and cover the person's mouth with yours. Give two 1-second breaths, watching for the chest to rise with each breath.

Continue CPR with a ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths until emergency personnel arrive or an AED becomes available. Remember the sequence: check safety, check responsiveness, call 911, check breathing, then start the 30:2 CPR cycle.

For children $1-8 years$, perform the same steps but use only one hand for compressions. For infants (under 1 year), use just two fingers instead of your hands and cover both their mouth and nose when giving breaths. The compression depth should be about 1.5 inches for infants.

🚨 Quick action is crucial! For every minute without CPR, a person's chance of survival decreases by 7-10%. Don't hesitate to start compressions if someone isn't breathing normally.